Cardiac Muscle Flashcards
1
Q
How does the plateau in action potential occur in cardiac muscle? Why is this plateau important?
A
. L-type calcium ions channels (long type) open slowly, so delay repolarisation of the sarcolemma
. Avoids cardiac tetanus
2
Q
How are action potentials distributed in cardiac muscle?
A
Via gap junctions between cardiomyocytes (no neuromuscular junctions in cardiac muscle)
3
Q
What is positive inotropy?
A
Increased force of contraction (leads to increased stroke volume)
4
Q
What is positive chronotropy?
A
Increased heart rate
